Viral Alexandria Dining Post Sparks Frenzy Over Richmond Highway Food Truck

ALEXANDRIA, VA – It started with a simple post in the Alexandria Dining Facebook group.

Twenty-four hours later, it has exploded to more than 42,000 views, dozens of enthusiastic comments, and what can only be described as a frenzy over a little-known seafood food truck tucked into the parking lot of a church on Richmond Highway.

“I had been wanting to try Fisher of Men,” Alexandria Dining member Tierney Sadler posted in her now-viral review. “I got wings and shrimp. The portions are definitely to share.” Sadler described a generous meal that included two sides, a drink, and dessert for $20.00.  “The shrimp was an add-on with 25 shrimp for $15!”

And then came the line that really got people’s attention: “Everything… hush puppies, potato salad included… was good and better than many of the surrounding restaurants.”

But the food was only part of the story.

“What I didn’t expect,” Sadler wrote, “is that the parking lot also holds a comprehensive food bank with produce, canned goods, breads, cookies, and even proteins.”

Tierney wrote, “There was a LOT of free food there.” She described church volunteers working side by side at the food truck and pantry. “Everybody was so friendly.” And perhaps most tellingly, “The church itself is humble, and the parking lot needs repair. And from what I saw today, it looks like they pour a lot of their resources into feeding the community instead of making the church glam.”

That sentiment struck a chord with Alexandria Dining members.

“The catfish is absolutely amazing,” wrote Felicia Robinson. “They started frying catfish and giving free platters out in 2020 when Covid hit. The ministry has continued into a prosperous church faith-based business. Love the food, the hospitality, respect, and all they have to offer.”

“The fish is top tier!! The best fish I’ve ever had!!” wrote Zonda Onmyown McMillan.

“I absolutely love this place,” added Reyna Gilbert. “Best fried fish in the area.”

Others praised both the portions and value.

“Yes great food, price, and people,” wrote Tanya Brown Jackson. “We get the fried Whitings and definitely a good amount and quality of food.”

Yet some of the most revealing comments came from people who had never visited at all.

“I’ve seen it when I leave Costco and have always wondered,” wrote Jennifer Hart Ackerman.

“I see them all the time too!” replied Jeff Lisanick. “I wasn’t sure what was going on.”

Then came the comment that perfectly captured the thread’s mood.

“I’ve never heard of it,” wrote Tori Dunbar. “I don’t go down Richmond Hwy much… I’m going for this though! Thanks for sharing.”

Others admitted to driving past the truck for years.

“I’ve driven past probably 500 times in the last three years, and I’ve never been quite sure if it was an actual food truck or an extension of their food bank,” wrote Brad Zeigler.

The answer, it turns out, is both.

Fisher of Men operates out of the parking lot of Greater Morning Star Apostolic Church at 7929 Richmond Highway. The church describes the seafood truck as part of its outreach ministry, with proceeds supporting its mission of serving the community.

That mission has deep roots. During the pandemic, church volunteers became known for serving free meals and helping neighbors in need, building a loyal following that continues today.

Which brings us back to Tierney Sadler.

After enjoying her meal, she made a donation to the food pantry.“I  got a lot of delicious food at a great price,” she wrote, “and I got to feel good about myself.”

For many Alexandrians, Fisher of Men isn’t new at all. It’s simply a place they drove by for years without stopping. But after one Alexandria Dining post and more than 40,000 views in just 24 hours, a lot more people may soon be pulling into that parking lot on Richmond Highway.

IF YOU GO

Fisher of Men:
7929 Richmond Highway,
Alexandria, VA 22306
Located in the parking lot of Greater Morning Star Apostolic Church, just south of Sherwood Hall Lane and across from Costco.
Phone: (703) 924-5001
Known for: Fried catfish, whiting, croaker, shrimp, wings, hush puppies and soul food sides.
Mission: More than a food truck, Fisher of Men is part of the church’s outreach ministry, combining good food with a commitment to feeding and serving the community.
Hours: The ministry does not appear to maintain regular posted hours online. The Zebra has reached out to the church for updated hours and will add them when available.